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November Quick Hits

Thanksgiving Cheat Sheet Cooking for the holidays can be stressful. Find all the perfect side dishes, seasonal recipes and desserts at carolinacountry.com/ thanksgiving

Falling for Compost Instead of raking leaves away, repurpose them for compost. Chop the leaves with a mower and put them in a compost basket for nutrient-rich organic matter.

Travel Plans Avoid traffic jams and airport mayhem during the holidays by researching off-peak travel days when planning trips.

Ease the Breeze If your refrigerator is too cold, it could be wasting energy. Refrigerators set between 35 and 38 degrees save energy and money.

Source: energy.gov

big Questions About our brighter Future

Shopping for a used electric vehicle

Q: I’m interested in purchasing an electric vehicle, but new models can be hard to come by and aren’t currently in my budget. What do I need to consider when shopping for a used EV? A:If you’re shopping for a used EV, there are now more options than ever. Here are a few areas to focus on, in addition to the typical used car shopping considerations like vehicle mileage, interior and exterior, and maintenance history. ■ Battery life and health The number one concern for used EV shoppers should be the health of the battery. Battery performance will affect an EV’s range, and replacements are not cheap. All EV batteries do degrade over time, but improvements in battery technology and management systems mean that many of the concerns of even a handful of years ago are not as prominent today.

Unfortunately, few EVs provide easy-to-access insight into the condition of the battery. So when checking out a used EV, ask to see its estimated range when fully charged. You can compare that value to the model’s U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-rated range (available at fueleconomy.gov) to get an idea of how the battery has held up. See if the dealership can give you a report on the battery’s health and ask if it’s been replaced (unlikely, but possible).

Today, all EVs come with at least an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty, so check on the status of that with any model you’re considering. Read the fine print as well to ensure the warranty transfers to new owners. If you’re uncertain, contact the manufacturer to confirm. ■ Charging speed Many EVs on the used market might not offer the range or charging speeds of newer models — the technology has improved significantly even over just the last couple of years. Consider how you’ll be using the car to determine if a lower range is a deal-breaker. If you are looking for something to take on longer trips, verify that the EVs you’re evaluating include a DC fast charge port. Today, most EVs come with DC fast charging capability by default. But some models, such as the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan LEAF, have had it as an option or only on certain trims. Also, look up what the cars’ max or “acceptance” charging rates are. This is the maximum amount of power they can take while DC fast charging, and it will affect how fast your fast charging will be. Make sure any vehicle you’re looking at comes with a charging cord, and if you’re buying from a private seller with a home charging station, ask if they’re interested in selling it, as well. ■ Tax credits and rebates Previously, used EVs did not qualify for the up-to-$7,500 federal income tax credit; however, the Inflation Reduction Act, signed earlier this year, introduced a tax credit for pre-owned EVs. Beginning Jan. 1, 2023, buyers may be eligible for a credit of up to $4,000 for used EVs that are under $25,000 and at least two years old. Other incentives may also apply. In particular, see if your electric cooperative offers rebates or special electricity rates for EV drivers. —Jonathan Susser, Advanced Energy

EnergyUnited’s Wayne Wilkins Awarded Order of the Long Leaf Pine

EnergyUnited’s longtime CEO who retired earlier this year, Wayne Wilkins, has been awarded The Order of the Long Leaf Pine from North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper. The award was presented in September to Wilkins by EnergyUnited Board Chairman Dr. Max Walser, who is also a past recipient of the award, at the cooperative’s headquarters in Statesville.

“I am proud to present this prestigious award to Wayne in recognition of the incredible impact he has had on the communities that we serve,” Walser said. “Over the course of his storied career in the industry, Wayne continually demonstrated a strong commitment to serving EnergyUnited members. His leadership philosophy reflected a sincere belief in the benefits of the cooperative business model.”

Since 1963, North Carolina’s governors have reserved their highest honor, The Order of the Long Leaf Pine award, for persons who have made significant contributions to the state and their communities through their exemplary service and exceptional accomplishments.

Wilkins’ 51-year career with North Carolina’s electric cooperatives includes service as CEO of Davidson EMC, where he helped coordinate the consolidation of it and the neighboring Crescent EMC to form the present-day EnergyUnited, based in Statesville, in 1998.

Wilkins also served on the board

Wayne Wilkins (left) with Dr. Max Walser EnergyUnited of directors of the Davidson County Economic Development Commission, UNC Charlotte EPIC Advisory Board, E-4 Carolina Board, the North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation board and the board of the North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperatives.

Be a Co-op Voter! Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 8. Electric cooperatives are dedicated to making our voices heard with our elected officials — join us at the polls to support issues important to our communities. Early voting runs Oct. 20 through Nov. 5. Visit bit.ly/ncsbe-polling to find your Election Day polling place and information about your county board of elections. CC2034_CarCty_NOV22_prepay.qxp_EVER06 CarCty Nov2022_prepay 9/8/22 10:00 PM Page 1

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selected by our readers

By Leah Chester-Davis

Our readers were not shy about nominating their favorites for this year’s Carolina’s Finest Awards, and the winners don’t disappoint! This is the fourth year for the awards, which is a great guide for getting out and exploring the state, and enjoying some of the best it has to offer.

Finest Made in NC Product

Cheerwine

cheerwine.com | Facebook @Cheerwine Cheerwine, that uniquely Southern soft drink that has been delighting taste buds since 1917 with its fizzy wild cherry taste, is a favorite North Carolina product. Created in Salisbury amid a sugar shortage, the drink’s creator, L.D. Peeler, concocted a drink with a wild cherry flavor. It’s been a winner ever since. While it’s a refreshing drink, Cheerwine is also used in numerous recipes, all available on the company website. That sweet, cherry flavor enhances barbecue, punch, candied apples, a Cheerwine poke cake, brownies and ice cream. It also pairs with another North Carolina product— Texas Pete— for a margarita. Cheers to a delicious drink and an ingredient for all kinds of culinary creations!

“Best soft drink of all time!”

Angela Meredith, High Point, a member of EnergyUnited Finest Food Truck

G e r m a in Me dIA

Kristin’s Hook’d on Smoke

West Jefferson and around Ashe County | Kristins-Hookd-On-Smoke.com Fans of Kristin’s Hook’d on Smoke Food Truck in Ashe County — Blue Ridge Energy territory — can’t seem to get enough of her delicious food, and the accolades keep rolling in! In addition to this year’s Carolina’s Finest, she has won best breakfast, lunch, dinner, wings, burgers and BBQ in Ashe County since 2013. Kristin Howell is part of good-cookin’ royalty. She grew up watching her great grandmother and grandpa run Shatley Springs Inn and Restaurant, a favored stop on any NC mountain sojourn, and she has run several restaurants herself. Kristin’s specialty is smoked meats and wings, but she prides herself on making sure her entire menu is amazing.

“Best food with the best smiling faces preparing it. Their food melts in your mouth and makes the soul happy!”

Finest BBQ

Apple City BBQ

3490 NC Hwy 16 South, Taylorsville applecitybbq.com | 828-471-5215 Instagram @applecitybbq

“…like heaven in a cloud of sweet goodness”

Krispy Kreme Finest Mainstreet

Downtown Sanford

Lee County | sanfordnc.net

One thing is for sure, Apple City BBQ in Taylorsville has a devoted following, and for good reason. They serve up some downright good eatin’! For the second year in a row, the restaurant is our readers’ top BBQ spot. Family-owned and operated by the Dula family, Apple City BBQ specializes in authentic, pit-cooked BBQ that is smoked slowly over apple and hickory wood. Just thinking about it makes your mouth water. No matter what you order — signature smoked BBQ, smoked pulled chicken, St. Louis ribs, the divine beef brisket — there are equally scrumptious sides made in-house to complement your meal. Apple City BBQ has become a road trip destination for foodies. Dine in or carry out Thursday through Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Finest Doughnut Shop Krispy Kreme

Various locations | krispykreme.com

“They do everything the right way. I’ve tried almost the whole menu and have yet to be disappointed. Great smoky flavors and tender and juicy. My mouth is watering just writing this!”

Joseph Cook, Lincolnton A member of Rutherford EMC For 85 years, Krispy Kreme has delighted doughnut lovers with its melt-in-yourmouth, sugary confections. Fans watch for the “Hot Light,” knowing that when it’s on, a freshly made, hot-off-the line bite of scrumptiousness is awaiting them when they walk in the door. Started in WinstonSalem, there are now more than 30 retail locations statewide, not to mention locations in several partner retailers and in more than 30 countries. Just about anywhere you travel, you can enjoy that reliable homemade goodness. The original glazed doughnut is iconic, but there are plenty of other options like chocolate iced glazed, chocolate iced custard filled, glazed lemon filled, glazed blueberry cake, cinnamon bun, and so much more to please your taste buds.

University of North Carolina at Ch a pel Hil l

Finest Sports Mascot

“The doughnuts are like heaven in a cloud of sweet goodness.”

DaleAnn Plyler, Monroe A member of Union Power Cooperative Covering a 17-block area, Downtown Sanford — near Central Electric’s service territory — prides itself on a mix of arts, music and fun, including shows at the Temple Theatre, free concerts featuring local and visiting musicians, a mural arts trail, a farmers market, Strawberry Jammin’ in spring, the Boo & Brew Tour in October, and more. For children, a Locomotive No. 12 Scavenger Hunt is a fun activity. Plenty of dining spots, including Big T’s Restaurant, one of Sanford’s oldest burger joints, provide lots of options. La Dolce Vita has delicious pizza and homemade gelato in the old Federal Building/post office. The renovation by its owner won an NC Main Street award. Yarborough’s Homemade Ice Cream, one of the oldest creameries in the state, is a favored stop as is Sandra’s Bakery, usually with a line out the door. Kathy’s Java Express kicks off the day with breakfast and lunch. Later, stop by Hugger Mugger or Wild Dogs breweries. Enjoy a variety of shops from books to bikes to boutiques and furniture stores, gift shops and an antique mall.

“They have revitalized this sweet little town, and brought some amazing shops, local restaurants, breweries and events. There is always something to do for all ages.”

Laura Gremore, Sanford A member of Central Electric

Rameses

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Talk about a stiff competition! Fans of sports team mascots seem to be just as passionate about them as the teams they represent. Rameses, the mascot of UNC Chapel Hill, is a beloved tradition of Tar Heel Nation, making appearances at sports and other community events. The mascot is part of Carolina royalty, and can appear as both a live ram — horns painted Carolina Blue, with a UNC blanket thrown over his wooly white coat — and as a student wearing the Rameses costume with flair, adding to the team spirit. Anywhere the mascot appears “everyone gets happy and everyone unites,” says a student of the live ram (a tradition dating back to 1924). Whichever is the favorite, Rameses reigns.

“Love the school, and the ram adds so much to the enjoyment of the games!”

Finest Festival

“Everything about it is amazing!”

Finest Holiday Lights Finest Weekend Getaway

Christmas in July Festival

West Jefferson | christmasinjuly.info What better place for a Christmas in July Festival than Christmas tree country. West Jefferson in Ashe County, one of the nation’s top Christmas tree producers, has been hosting its annual summer festival for 34 years. It’s the perfect time to head to the cooler temperatures of this quaint mountainous town — served by Blue Ridge Energy — and enjoy mountain music, traditional folk dances like clogging and flat footing, and other entertainment. Shop with local artisans and craftspeople and peruse the town’s shops. People watch or get caught up in activities of street performers, a tree baling competition, and lots of attractions for children, including a visit with Santa. Food vendors and fun are plentiful. Mark your calendar for June 30 and July 1, 2023.

“There is always a good group of vendors and friendly people, held in the fun town of West Jefferson with usually excellent weather. I always attend and enjoy it!”

Nancy Kiplinger, Greensboro A member of Blue Ridge Energy

Lake Linda’s Christmas Lights

218 Old House Road, Hampstead lakelindaschristmaslights.com | 910-279-3892 Facebook @lakelindaschristmaslights “Let your light shine” seems to be Mike and Tonia Register’s mantra. What started as this couple’s desire to brighten the holidays with a few Christmas lights 11 years ago has turned into a holiday extravaganza. Lake Linda’s Christmas Lights is so big that many people think it’s put on by the local municipality. The holiday lights display is synchronized to music and brightens not only the holidays for the Surf City area, it has captured national attention. Two years ago, ABC’s “The Great Christmas Light Fight” showcased the popular and fun Christmas wonderland. The Registers, along with their friends and family, plan all year. Santa often visits to add to the merriment, and thousands visit from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, from dusk to 10 p.m. on weeknights, and to 10:30 p.m. on weekends. The light display is free, but donations are accepted. You can drive through or, for the optimal experience, walk through.

“Everything about it is amazing! The lights are spectacular, and every year there is a little something different or new. They do it for the people and the community.”

Finest NC State Park

Patty Foley, RockyPoint A member of Four County EMC

Morrow Mountain State Park Emerald Isle

Carteret County emeraldisle-nc.org | 252-354-3424 Dip your toes in the sand, splash in the water, play a round of golf, enjoy a bite to eat in a local restaurant, or browse a quaint shop. North Carolinians have lots of favored weekend getaway spots, and Emerald Isle, served by Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative, tops our readers’ favorites. Fortunately, a visit to the beach is within driving distance from just about anywhere in the state and this beach town offers plenty. From its 12 miles of pristine sandy beaches to its small-town atmosphere with quaint shops and restaurants— not to mention all kinds of outdoor adventures — Emerald Isle has something for everyone. Located along the Crystal Coast and at the western end of the Bogue Banks, get away to this coastal destination and chances are you will return again and again.

“Emerald Isle has a small-beach feel with a beautiful beach and many trails nearby. Off-season is my favorite, and I love driving over the bridge — my favorite scene.”

Patricia Joyner, Emerald Isle A member of Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative

We’ll be relying on you again next year to share your opinions on Carolina’s Finest. Look for voting to open in our April 2023 issue.

49104 Morrow Mountain Road, Albemarle | bit.ly/mm_state_park | 704-982-4402 “Old and Adventure abounds across our state, thanks to the 41 places that are part of the North Carolina State Parks wonderful System. There are awesome places to visit from the mountains to the coast, and Morrow Mountain State Park sits atop the list when it comes to our readers’ favorite this year. Located near Albemarle, Morrow park.” Mountain is one of the highest peaks in the Uwharrie Mountains. Hiking, camping, paddling, fishing, horseback riding, and swimming are among the many activities. Rent a canoe or rowboat at the boathouse on Lake Tillery, or purchase bait for fishing. Visit for the day or enjoy a campground that has sites for tents, trailers, and RVs. Or enjoy rustic cabins and hike to a remote camping spot.

“Old and wonderful park for swimming, boating, camping, hiking and picnics.”

Note: Call 877-722-6272 to find or book a camping spot or cabin. Major construction and renovations are planned for several facilities in 2023, although the main park will remain open.

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'Fall back' with lower rates

Changing season, changing clocks... a lot of changes come about this time of year, including our rates. Lower Rate

The lower “non-summer” energy charge goes into effect this month, putting a little extra money in your pocket just in time for the holidays. The rate for residential customers is 9.01 cents per kilowatthour, down from the summer rate of 9.98 cents. The seasonal rate change more accurately reflects the prices the co-op pays for wholesale power. In this area, electricity costs more in the summer when demand is high and less in the winter when demand is typically lower. Safety & Energy Savings

When you set your clocks back an hour at the end of daylight saving time (Sunday, Nov. 6), let the time change also serve as a reminder to change batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and to test them to make sure they are working properly.

It's a good time to check and replace your HVAC system filters, too! A dirty filter will slow down air flow and make the system work harder to keep you warm — wasting energy. Changing filters is simple and inexpensive, and can mean the difference between optimum comfort and avoidable repairs.

Our offices will be closed Nov. 24 & 25. Co-op to award $20,000 in scholarships

CCEC and the Carteret-Craven Electric Foundation want to make college finances a little easier for five high school seniors heading to school in the fall of 2023 by providing scholarships valued at $4,000 for four years on the web of study. One student

Capital Credits each from East

We may have money for Carteret, West you! Check our unclaimed Carteret, capital credits list at: Croatan and ccemc.com/CapitalCredits Havelock high schools will be selected, with the fifth recipient being the next highest-scoring applicant among all the applications, which may include applicants from other schools such as Jones Senior High School, early college and Gramercy.

The scholarship program is open to students whose primary residence is on the co-op’s lines. To qualify, the student must be a high school senior in the current graduating class and must be accepted at a two-year community/technical college or four-year college or university. All applicants will be considered on the stated criteria, regardless of race, age, color, religion, sex, handicap or national origin.

The application is available at ccemc.com/ Scholarships, as well as from the counselors' offices at each school, and at our offices in Newport and Havelock.

The deadline for applications is March 1, 2023, but it’s never too early to apply.